The Mercedes-AMG GLC 63 has always been more than just a fast SUV; it’s a benchmark, a statement piece in the compact performance SUV world that perfectly marries boardroom luxury with racetrack brutality. But today, this incredible vehicle stands at a fascinating crossroads, defined by a seismic shift in its very heart. The great debate of the GLC 63 V8 vs Hybrid isn’t merely about engines; it’s about the soul of performance itself. This guide offers a definitive look at both eras of this iconic machine, providing a deep-dive 2025 Mercedes-AMG GLC 63 review while also serving as a crucial resource for anyone considering this remarkable vehicle, new or used.
The Great Divide: The V8 Legend vs. The Hybrid Revolution
To truly understand the Mercedes-AMG GLC 63 of today, you must first understand its past. The transition from a thunderous, fire-breathing V8 to a hyper-advanced, Formula 1-derived hybrid isn’t just an engineering update; it’s a fundamental reinvention of the “63” nameplate that has enthusiasts and automotive journalists passionately divided. So, which soul speaks to you: the old-school muscle or the new-age technological titan?
The Last of the Thunder Kings: The V8-Powered GLC 63 S (2017-2023)
This is the model that forged the legend. For years, if you wanted a compact SUV with the heart and sound of a German muscle car, the V8-powered Mercedes-AMG GLC 63 was the undisputed king. It was celebrated not just for its speed, but for its immense character and raw, emotional appeal.
The Heart of the Beast: The 4.0L Twin-Turbo V8
The star of the show was, without question, the M177 engine—a handcrafted 4.0L twin-turbo V8 that shared its DNA with the AMG GT sports car. In the GLC 63 S, it produced a staggering 503 horsepower and 516 lb-ft of torque. But the numbers never told the whole story. The real magic was in the sound—a deep, guttural roar that erupted into a crackling crescendo on upshifts. It was an engine that felt alive, imbuing the practical SUV with a wild, untamed personality that was utterly addictive.
Driving Dynamics and Feel
The V8 model was a brute in the best possible way. Power was sent through a 4MATIC+ all-wheel-drive system that was distinctly rear-biased, giving it the playful handling characteristics of a powerful sedan. It was a vehicle that demanded respect, rewarding a skilled driver with an experience that was both thrilling and deeply engaging. While its ride could be firm, especially on broken pavement, owners gladly accepted it as a small price to pay for such a charismatic machine.
Market Position and GLC 63 Resale Value
Today, this generation is rapidly becoming a modern classic. As the industry moves away from large-displacement engines, the V8-powered Mercedes-AMG GLC 63 is seen as the end of an era. This “last of its kind” status is having a significant impact on its GLC 63 resale value, with well-maintained, low-mileage examples holding their value exceptionally well. For many, it represents the pinnacle of the internal combustion compact performance SUV.
The New Era of Power: The GLC 63 S E PERFORMANCE (2024-Present)
Enter the future. Faced with tightening emissions regulations and an insatiable desire to push performance boundaries, AMG reinvented the GLC 63. The result is a technological tour de force that sacrifices the V8 soul for mind-bending, on-paper superiority.
Deconstructing the E PERFORMANCE Hybrid System
The V8 is gone, replaced by the incredibly complex E PERFORMANCE hybrid system. This powertrain pairs the world’s most powerful production four-cylinder engine—a 2.0-liter turbocharged unit—with a rear-axle-mounted electric motor. As confirmed by Mercedes-AMG, the combined output is an astonishing 671 horsepower and 752 lb-ft of torque (Mercedes-Benz USA, 2024). This F1-inspired technology provides instant electric torque to eliminate turbo lag, resulting in ferocious acceleration.
The Tech That Tames the Weight: Rear-Axle Steering and Active Suspension
All this technology comes at a cost: weight. The new Mercedes-AMG GLC 63 is significantly heavier than its predecessor. To counteract this, AMG threw a suite of advanced chassis technology at it. Standard rear-axle steering makes the SUV feel more nimble at low speeds and more stable at high speeds. The sophisticated AMG Ride Control+ suspension with active roll stabilization works tirelessly to keep the massive vehicle flat and composed through corners, often feeling like it’s defying physics.
The Sound of a New Generation
Herein lies the controversy. The four-cylinder engine, despite its immense power, cannot replicate the V8 sound. AMG uses speakers to enhance the engine noise both inside and outside the cabin, but many critics and enthusiasts find the resulting soundtrack to be synthetic and lacking the authentic character of the old V8. It’s a powerful noise, but it doesn’t stir the soul in the same way.
A Deep Dive into the 2025 Mercedes-AMG GLC 63 Review
Looking past the engine debate, how does the newest Mercedes-AMG GLC 63 stack up as a complete package? For the tech-savvy buyer who craves the latest and greatest, it presents a compelling, if complex, proposition.
Performance by the Numbers: The Astonishing GLC 63 0-60 Time
If raw numbers are your measure of performance, the new model is in a league of its own. The hybrid powertrain delivers a blistering GLC 63 0-60 time of just 3.0 seconds, according to instrumented tests by publications like Car and Driver (Car and Driver, 2024). That’s faster than many dedicated supercars and a significant improvement over the already-fast V8 model. The acceleration is relentless and instantaneous, a truly shocking display of engineering prowess.
Interior, Technology, and Luxury
Inside, the new GLC 63 is a masterpiece of modern Mercedes design. The cabin is dominated by the large, portrait-oriented MBUX infotainment screen, featuring AMG-specific performance displays. The material quality is exceptional, and the fit and finish are what you’d expect from a top-tier German luxury vehicle. Whether you choose the traditional SUV or the sleeker GLC 63 S Coupe, you’re getting a cabin that is both technologically advanced and supremely comfortable.
Living With the Hybrid: Real-World Practicality
The hybrid system introduces new dimensions to daily driving. A small battery allows for a short electric-only driving range, perfect for silent, emission-free errands around town. In comfort mode, the vehicle is remarkably quiet and refined. However, the complexity of the system can sometimes be felt in the brake pedal, which blends regenerative and mechanical braking with less fluidity than a traditional system.
The Competitive Landscape: Where Does the GLC 63 Stand?
The Mercedes-AMG GLC 63 has never existed in a bubble. It faces a roster of incredibly talented rivals, each offering a unique flavor of high performance.
The Bavarian Rival: BMW X3 M Competition
The BMW X3 M Competition is perhaps the GLC 63 most direct competitor. It takes a more traditional approach, relying on a high-revving, twin-turbocharged inline-six engine. The BMW often feels more raw and track-focused, with sharper steering and a stiffer chassis. The choice between them comes down to philosophy: the AMG hybrid brute force versus the BMW’s more analog, motorsport-inspired feel.
The Italian Heartthrob: Alfa Romeo Stelvio Quadrifoglio
If you buy a car with your heart, the Alfa Romeo Stelvio Quadrifoglio is impossible to ignore. Powered by a Ferrari-derived twin-turbo V6, the Stelvio is praised for its passionate design, sublime handling, and soulful engine note. It may not have the outright technological sophistication of the new Mercedes-AMG GLC 63, but it delivers an emotional driving experience that is arguably second to none in its class.
Your Path to Ownership: A Used Mercedes GLC 63 S Buying Guide
With the V8 model now a sought-after gem on the used market, it represents a fantastic opportunity. But buying a high-performance German vehicle requires due diligence.
What to Look For: Model Years and Key Updates
The V8 generation (X253) saw a significant facelift for the 2020 model year. Pre-facelift models (2017-2019) use the older COMAND infotainment system, while 2020-2023 models feature the much-improved MBUX system with a larger screen and more modern interface. This is a major quality-of-life upgrade that many buyers prioritize.
Common Mercedes GLC 63 Problems and Inspection Points
While generally robust, there are things to watch for. A thorough pre-purchase inspection is non-negotiable.
- Tires and Brakes: These vehicles are heavy and powerful, leading to accelerated wear. Check for even tire wear, as misalignment can be an issue.
- Air Suspension: The air suspension system can be costly to repair. Ensure the car sits level and test all height and damping settings.
- Service History: A complete service history from a reputable dealer or specialist is critical. Pay close attention to records for transmission and differential fluid changes, which are vital for longevity.
Finding the Right Car: Price, Mileage, and Condition
Look for a well-documented, lower-mileage example if your budget allows. A case study could be a buyer choosing between a 2019 model with 40,000 miles and a 2020 facelift model with 55,000 miles for a similar price. The newer tech of the 2020 model might be worth the extra mileage for some, while others may prioritize the lower wear of the 2019. It’s a personal balance of priorities.
Final Verdict: Which Mercedes-AMG GLC 63 is Right for You?
So, where do we land? The Mercedes-AMG GLC 63 is no longer one car, but two distinct philosophies packaged in a similar shape.
The choice is a reflection of what you value in a performance vehicle. Are you a purist who craves the sound, the soul, and the visceral character of a big V8? If so, a well-cared-for used Mercedes GLC 63 S is your answer—a future classic that delivers an unforgettable experience.
Or are you a technologist, someone who demands the absolute pinnacle of performance figures, cutting-edge engineering, and the fastest possible acceleration? If that’s you, the new 2025 Mercedes-AMG GLC 63 S E PERFORMANCE is your machine—a marvel of modern engineering that showcases the future of speed.
Ultimately, regardless of which path you choose, the Mercedes-AMG GLC 63 remains an extraordinary force in the automotive world, a true super SUV that proves you can, in fact, have it all. Which one would you park in your garage?
Mercedes-AMG GLC 63 FAQs
Question: What is the main difference between the old and new Mercedes-AMG GLC 63?
Answer: The biggest difference is the engine. The old model (pre-2024) used a charismatic 4.0L twin-turbo V8 known for its thunderous sound. The new model uses a technically advanced E PERFORMANCE hybrid system, pairing a 2.0L four-cylinder engine with an electric motor for more power but a different character.
Question: Is the V8-powered Mercedes GLC 63 S reliable?
Answer: The 4.0L V8 engine is generally considered robust and reliable when properly maintained. As with any high-performance vehicle, regular servicing is crucial. Common issues to check on used models include the air suspension and electronics. A full service history is the best indicator of a reliable example.
Question: Is the 2025 Mercedes-AMG GLC 63 faster than the V8 model?
Answer: Yes, on paper and in real-world tests, the new hybrid Mercedes-AMG GLC 63 is significantly faster. Its combined 671 horsepower and instant electric torque result in a quicker 0-60 mph time compared to the V8 model, despite the added weight from the hybrid system.
Question: Why is the GLC 63 S so expensive?
Answer: The Mercedes-AMG GLC 63 commands a premium price due to its extensive engineering, high-performance components, and luxury features. It combines the capabilities of a sports car with the practicality of an SUV, featuring a handcrafted engine (in the V8) or a complex hybrid system, advanced suspension, and a high-end interior.
Author Bio:
Alex Carter is a certified automotive journalist and performance driving analyst with over 15 years of experience. He has contributed to several leading automotive publications, specializing in German performance vehicles. Alex holds a degree in mechanical engineering and spends his weekends on the track, testing the limits of modern sports cars and SUVs.
Disclaimer:
The information provided in this article is for informational purposes only. All data, including performance figures and specifications, is based on publicly available information from manufacturers and reputable automotive publications at the time of writing. Vehicle specifications and market values can change. We recommend consulting official sources and conducting a professional pre-purchase inspection before making any vehicle purchase.
You can refer to more:
- Official Mercedes-AMG GLC 63 Specifications : This links directly to the manufacturer’s official page, providing readers with the most accurate and up-to-date technical data, specifications, and configuration options for the latest model. It serves as an authoritative source for fact-checking.
- Car and Driver Instrumented Test : This link directs users to a trusted, independent review from a major automotive publication. It provides third-party validation of performance claims, such as the GLC 63 0-60 time, and offers an expert opinion on driving dynamics.
- MBWorld AMG GLC 63 Forum : Linking to a popular owner’s forum like MBWorld provides readers with real-world insights and experiences. They can read about common Mercedes GLC 63 problems, maintenance costs, and long-term ownership directly from a community of enthusiasts.
